How do fossil fuels play a role in the carbon cycle?

Question

Responses

Fossil fuels require a lot of carbon to burn, which takes carbon out of the atmosphere.
Fossil fuels require a lot of carbon to burn, which takes carbon out of the atmosphere.

Fossil fuels require a lot of carbon to burn, which releases carbon into the atmosphere.
Fossil fuels require a lot of carbon to burn, which releases carbon into the atmosphere.

Fossil fuels are rich in carbon, and burning them returns carbon to the soil.
Fossil fuels are rich in carbon, and burning them returns carbon to the soil.

Fossil fuels are rich in carbon, and burning them releases carbon into the atmosphere.

Answer 1

Fossil fuels are rich in carbon, and burning them releases carbon into the atmosphere.

When fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas are burned for energy, they undergo a combustion process that converts the carbon stored in them into carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases. This process contributes to the atmosphere's carbon levels, influencing the carbon cycle and contributing to climate change. Therefore, fossil fuels play a significant role in the carbon cycle by returning carbon that was stored underground for millions of years back into the atmosphere.